Citi Analyst Recommends UK Stocks as Hedge During Iran Conflict

Middle Eastern outlets focus on Iran’s decision to hit Kurdish groups in Iraq and the risk that fighting will spill across more borders. They stress that Gulf economies like the UAE are trying to keep trade and services running even as oil prices climb and shipping and travel face higher insurance costs. Commentators warn that a drawn‑out war could hurt regional growth, raise living costs and force governments to spend more on security and subsidies.

• •Iran’s strikes on Kurdish groups in Iraq show that the conflict is widening beyond the original fronts.
• •Businesses in the UAE report that day‑to‑day commercial activity continues despite the Iran war and higher regional tensions.
• •Higher oil prices linked to the conflict are boosting export revenues for some producers while raising fuel and transport costs for consumers.
• •Regional governments are preparing for possible increases in defense and security spending if the war drags on.
• •Travel and shipping companies in the region face higher insurance premiums and route risks because of the Iran conflict.